“I stand before you today in great pride and joy, it is more than an honour, I am honoured to be the first black woman wearing a hijab to take this role.”
Sheffield has made history as Safiya Saeed becomes the city’s new Right Worshipful Lord Mayor – the first Black woman wearing a hijab to hold the prestigious title.
The 128th person to wear the mayoral chains, Councillor Saeed was officially sworn in at Sheffield City Council’s Annual General Meeting, where her proud family watched from the chamber – some having flown in especially from her homeland of Somaliland to mark the momentous occasion.
Standing tall in her ceremonial robes, the mother-of-five spoke with emotion: “I stand before you today in great pride and joy. It is more than an honour – I am honoured to be the first Black woman wearing a hijab to take this role.”
It’s a deeply personal victory for Safiya, who arrived in Sheffield back in 1985 and has since dedicated her life to public service and community activism. Her journey from immigrant teenager to the city’s top civic figure is nothing short of inspirational.
A single mother raising five children, Safiya has never shied away from a challenge. She has served as Deputy Lord Mayor and chaired the North East Local Area Committee, earning respect across the political spectrum. But it’s her grassroots work that has left the biggest mark.
As founder of Reach Up Youth, Safiya has empowered hundreds of young people, particularly from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, providing leadership training, workshops, access to vital services, and safe spaces where they can grow and thrive.
“My children have taught me the value of nurturing future generations,” she shared. “That’s what Reach Up Youth is all about. It’s about helping young people believe in themselves.”
Outside of her civic duties, Safiya is a self-confessed people-person, who loves travel, networking, and learning. She aims to transform Sheffield into a buzzing hub of collaboration, bringing together entrepreneurs, charities, investors, and everyday residents to build a more unified, prosperous city.
“I came to Sheffield in 1985, and this city has truly become my home – a place where I have always felt I belong,” she said. “I want every voice, no matter how quiet, to feel heard in the heart of this city.”
